Physics

Why study Physics?

An understanding of physics underpins our understanding of the modern world in general, encompassing areas as diverse as space exploration and the nuclear power controversy. For those intending to pursue any of the traditional professions, or more technical training, it is most favourably looked upon as a preparatory area of
study.

Aims & Objectives:

In general, to maintain the students interest in and enthusiasm for the subject (if such enthusiasm still needed to be created they would be highly unlikely to have chosen the subject for GCSE).

In particular, to give a thorough grounding in physics for those who wish to continue the subject to A-level and above or pursue technical training. The physics element of ‘combined science’ courses being widely believed to be a far inferior preparation for such career paths.

You will study:

• Unit 1: Energy, Radiation and the Universe.
• Unit 2: Electricity, Forces and Nuclear Physics.
• Unit 3: Electromagnetism, Waves, Kinetic Theory and Nucleosynthesis.

You will learn:

• A sound factual knowledge of the particular topics covered
• An ability to apply basic mathematical techniques to physical problems
• Practical experimental skills
• An ability to analyse data and draw logical conclusions
• An ability to rationally weigh the evidence in areas of disagreement such as the relative environmental / social impacts of various technologies

Assessment:

It is intended that students will sit Unit 1 in the January of Year 10. If necessary it can be re-sat in June of Year 10.

It is intended that students will sit Unit 2 in the Summer of Year 10. If necessary, either or both of these units can then be re-sat in January and / or June of Year 11. (Thus allowing maximum benefit from re-sit opportunities. Pupils will be encouraged to re-sit as the best mark is kept for the final accumulation rather than the most recent one).

This has been the approach adopted highly successfully over recent years, but there may be some adjustment to the availability dates of each module for the September 2011 cohort. We await confirmation of this from the exam board.

Unit 3 must be sat in June Year 11. Any re-sit would not be possible until June Year 12. Each of these theory units counts for 25% of the total GCSE.

The Practical Assessment consists of a laboratory based practical task to be performed on a set day in Year 10 or 11 (of which the student will receive several weeks notice). Unlike in previous years, it is likely that some prior preparation/research will be required by the student, details of which will be provided by the teacher in due time. This practical assessment also makes up 25% of the GCSE.